Window Air Conditioner Repair Basics
Are you having issues with your window AC unit? This article offers up a
few tips to help you get it back up and running like new.
In general,

a malfunctioning window AC unit will be a cheaper fix than a
central air system. Many issues will begin with a sudden reduction in
the amount of cool air being emitted from the unit. In some cases, the
process involved in fixing an air conditioner may be as simple as
cleaning it, as opposed to a full scale repair. In this article, we will
walk you through a few troubleshooting air conditioner repair tips to
help you get that window air conditioner back up and running like new.
Tools:
Screwdriver
Bleach
Warm Water
Dish Washing Detergent
Heavy Duty Brush
Vacuum Cleaner
Fin Comb
Step 1 – Before you get started, be sure to unplug the unit. Once power
has been shut off, unscrew and remove the grill. Some older models may
require you to pry the grill off with the aid of a flathead screwdriver.
Step 2 – Gently slide the unit out from it’s spot inside the window
frame. This is generally a two-person job. Make sure you have someone
around to help you lift the unit and move it to a solid and sturdy area.
Step 3 – Take a close look at the unit’s mesh filter. You should find it
covering the evaporator coil fins. Remove the filter and wash it with
warm water, some dishwashing soap and a pinch of bleach. Shake out the
filter so that any excess water is removed and sit it out to dry.
Step 4 – Add a brush attachment to your vacuum and run it over the
evaporator coils. Once you are through vacuuming, use a heavy-duty brush
to help remove any excess dirt that is still on the coils.
Step 5 – Pay close attention to the evaporator coil fins. Inspect them
to make sure that they are all straight and use a tool called a fin comb
to help straighten any bent fins you happen to come across. Bent fins
can impede the flow of air coming from the unit. By taking the time to
straighten them, you can rest assured that you will be receiving the
maximum amount of air being produced by the unit.
Step 6 – Next, spin the unit around in order to get a good look at the
condenser coils. These coils should be vacuumed in a similar fashion at
the evaporator coils. Once again, you should employ the use of a
heavy-duty brush to help in removing any excess dirt left behind by the
vacuum. Use the fin comb again to straighten any bent coils you happen
to find.
Step 7 – Next are the fan blades. Clean each blade before using the
vacuum to remove any remaining dust or dirt particles. Once this is
complete, you should be good to place the unit back onto the window
frame. Place the mesh filter back onto the unit once it has dried
completely. Replace the grill. Once you’re put back together, power the
unit on and see how you’re doing. If you’re still having issues, you may
want to call in the expertise of a professional air conditioner repair
AC technician.